My mother used to say that the only thing holidays were good for was to set people up for hurt and disappointment. It seems cynical, but unfortunately, it's often true. The world's expectations for these contrived celebrations definitely set us up for a letdown. Life just isn't as magical as we would like it to be, although marketers want us to think that if we spend enough time, effort, and money, we can achieve it.

Commercialism sets a high bar: If we don't buy the perfect gift to create a magical moment, or if we aren't the perfect spouse, child, or parent, on those special days, we are losers. So we spend the money, buy the stuff, and swallow down the sour taste the emptiness leaves in our mouths.

And it’s never enough. Because things can’t make us feel loved.

I will be the first to claim loserhood. I am nothing without God. But He doesn't see me as a loser. He sees me as a sinner, His beloved lost creation, a dear child needing a Father.

Jesus Christ came to give us the perfect gift: Himself. For a tired, hurting old world, He offers love that is eternal and beyond the natural in its fulfillment. In Him is the sweet taste of life. In Him, we can enjoy a supernatural existence that looks heavenward.

This world offers the rose but pierces the hand that reaches for it. God offers a love that is pure, beautiful, and tender. If we trust in Him, we will never be disappointed.

One day of each year we honor the idea of love. Every hour of every day of the year, God demonstrates to us His exquisite love. He shows us through His Word, through His people, through His creation, and through His Spirit. Eternity won't be long enough to tell Him thanks and give Him our hearts.

He is the rose without thorns.

About Pamela Thorson:

Pamela Thorson is a licensed practical nurse, author, and full-time caregiver. She pioneered in the homeschooling movement from 1982-2006 and authored her first book, Song in the Night, in 2008. She resides in the Northwest with her family.

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